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Animation Script Writer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Use knowledge of 2D and/or CG animation to ensure that posing, staging, and cutting is both inventive and producible. * Translate script pages and written or verbal descriptions into visual, ranging ...

Use knowledge of 2D and/or CG animation to ensure that posing, staging, and cutting is both inventive and producible. Translate script pages and written or verbal descriptions into visual, ranging ...

Use knowledge of 2D and/or CG animation to ensure that posing, staging, and cutting is both inventive and producible. * Translate script pages and written or verbal descriptions into visual, ranging ...

Production Manager

Burbank, CA · On-site

$70K - $76K/yr

Excellent written and oral communication skills * Must be detail oriented, organized, and stay cool ... Experience with prelay animation workflows * Knowledge of game audio/localization pipelines

New

Storyteller ($100-150k)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

You research the subject, develop the concept, write the script, set up and run the shoot, edit the piece, and bring it to life with music, motion and animation. You are not handed a brief and asked ...

Production Manager

Burbank, CA · On-site

$70K - $76K/yr

Excellent written and oral communication skills * Must be detail oriented, organized, and stay cool ... Experience with prelay animation workflows * Knowledge of game audio/localization pipelines

New

Storyteller ($100-150k)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

You research the subject, develop the concept, write the script, set up and run the shoot, edit the piece, and bring it to life with music, motion and animation. You are not handed a brief and asked ...

Storyteller ($100-150k)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

You research the subject, develop the concept, write the script, set up and run the shoot, edit the piece, and bring it to life with music, motion and animation. You are not handed a brief and asked ...

Showing results 41-60

Animation Script Writer information

See California salary details

$11

$23

$41

How much do animation script writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation script writer in California is $23.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an animation script writer do?

An Animation Script Writer creates compelling stories, dialogue, and narrative structures for animated films, TV shows, or online content. They develop characters, write engaging scripts, and collaborate with directors, animators, and producers to ensure the story aligns with the animation’s visual and thematic goals. Their work involves brainstorming ideas, refining scripts, and ensuring the tone and pacing fit the target audience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animation script writer?

To thrive as an Animation Script Writer, you need excellent storytelling abilities, a flair for writing engaging dialogue, and a solid understanding of animation production, often supported by a degree in creative writing, screenwriting, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard scriptwriting software like Final Draft or Celtx, and sometimes storyboard tools, is highly valuable. Strong collaboration, adaptability, and clear communication help writers work effectively with directors, animators, and producers. These skills are crucial for creating compelling scripts that align with production requirements and resonate with diverse audiences.

What does a typical workday look like for an animation script writer?

A typical workday for an Animation Script Writer often involves developing story concepts, writing or revising scripts, and collaborating with creative teams such as directors, storyboard artists, and animators. You may attend brainstorming sessions, receive feedback, and adjust scripts to match visual storytelling needs or production constraints. Script writers also research trends and audience preferences to keep content fresh and appealing. While deadlines can be tight, the work is highly creative and collaborative, making each day varied and engaging.

How much do animation script writers make?

Animation script writers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level writers may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working on major productions can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by freelance work or royalties.

How to become a script writer for animation?

To become an animation script writer, develop strong storytelling and writing skills, often through a degree in screenwriting, film, or related fields. Build a portfolio of scripts, gain experience with screenwriting software, and understand animation production processes. Networking within the industry and staying updated on trends can also help secure opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Script Writer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Animation Script Writer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Animation Script Writer jobs in California?

For Animation Script Writer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animation Script Writer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Animation Script Writer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Animation Script Writer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 5% Temporary, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,858 per year, or $24 per hour.

Storyboard Artist- Ink

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$74.52/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a Storyboard Artist to join our pioneering team in developing animated shorts and specials using experimental GenAI-native production pipelines. You will be a crucial partner in visual storytelling, responsible for creating high-quality storyboards from story inception through final delivery. This role requires technical curiosity to navigate, build, and support hybrid workflows using both traditional and new tools, all while contributing to the development of feature-quality content within our creator- and artist-led environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with creative leadership to define and clarify staging, camera, pacing, and character acting, bringing story concepts to life and creating a visual blueprint.
  • Apply a strong understanding of story principles.
  • Use knowledge of 2D and/or CG animation to ensure that posing, staging, and cutting is both inventive and producible.
  • Translate script pages and written or verbal descriptions into visual, ranging from rough thumbnail sketches to finalized storyboard panels.
  • Pitch storyboards to the story, leadership and creative teams.
  • Brainstorm inventive story beats, comedic and dramatic actions, and dialogue tweaks to elevate the story.
  • Proactively engage with and help define traditional, GenAI, and hybrid workflows to achieve creative excellence, bridging 2D and 3D ideas and integration for high-quality animation and story.
  • Receive and incorporate feedback quickly and thoughtfully, maintaining consistency with creative direction, production guidelines, and sprint timelines.
  • Work closely with leadership to resolve issues and address notes.
  • Drive look development and visual experimentation efforts by pioneering new approaches to blend generative imagery with traditional renders and footage.
  • Build workflows, templates, and scripts as needed.
  • Ensure storyboards are delivered to the highest standard and on schedule through effective teamwork and problem‑solving skills.
  • Help foster a collaborative, inclusive, curious, and exploratory team environment.
Qualifications
  • 4+ years of storyboarding experience in animation, games, or digital media (feature, episodic, or high‑end short‑form); experience with stylized or non‑photoreal work is a plus.
  • A portfolio that demonstrates extensive story experience for animated shorts, series, or features.
  • Storyboarding samples and/or credits demonstrating excellence and inspiration in cinematic sense, graphic storytelling, character development, composition, and editorial pacing.
  • Advanced working knowledge of digital drawing tools.
  • Demonstrated and genuine interest in Generative AI imagery and video, with a proactive, hands‑on approach to exploring new GenAI tools to enhance storytelling capabilities.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to deliver high-quality work on schedule in a fast-moving sprint‑based environment.
  • Ability to take direction positively, collaborate across disciplines, and communicate clearly with creative, technical, and production partners.
  • A scrappy, builder’s mindset with a high degree of independence, out‑of‑the‑box application, and initiative as production support and workflows evolve alongside the creative process.
  • Demonstrated experience working in ambiguous environments where the core production pipeline is being built and rapidly iterated upon.
  • Comfortable taking big‑picture approaches while willing to build new workflows in a fluid, evolving production environment.
  • Ability to provide upward, constructive feedback to leadership for improved scalability.
  • Preferred, not required: Traditional art, photography, or film background.
Benefits

This job may be covered by a collective bargaining agreement. If so, pay for the position is governed by the currently effective applicable collective bargaining agreement and will be no less than $74.52 an hour and up to any better conditions and terms negotiated and obtained as expressly provided therein. Depending on whether you are covered by a collective bargaining agreement, INK benefits can include medical/dental/vision plans, mental health support, retirement programs, and family‑forming benefits, paid leave of absence programs, and paid time away programs to be used for vacation and sick paid time off.

Inclusion and Accommodation

Inclusion is a Netflix value and we strive to host a meaningful interview experience for all candidates. If you want an accommodation/adjustment for a disability or any other reason during the hiring process, please send a request to your recruiting partner.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

We are an equal‑opportunity employer and celebrate diversity, recognizing that diversity builds stronger teams. We approach diversity and inclusion seriously and thoughtfully. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, ancestry, national origin, caste, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, age, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic makeup, marital status, or military service.

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